The 6-Move Countdown Challenge

You’ve probably done a workout ladder before. There’s the ascending version—in which the number of reps go up every round—or the descending version—in which the number of reps go down.

Usually, the descending ladder is easier . . . until now.

This challenge involves 6 bodyweight exercises that test your strength, power, and fitness. You’ll count down your reps, doing 50 reps of the first movement, 40 of the second, 30 of the third, 20 of the fourth, 10 of the fifth, and 5 of the sixth.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

But here’s why this ladder is such a nightmare: The exercises get harder as you count down.

The intensity is building even though the density is decreasing, so it feels as if there’s no end in sight, explains Todd Durkin, C.S.C.S., author of The IMPACT! Body Plan.

And once you finish your last rep, Durkin wants you to do it again. How fast can you complete two descents of the ladder? The time to beat: 3:47.

If you want an entire workout program that pumps up your power while burning fat, try The Anarchy Workout. One guy lost 18 pounds of fat in just 6 weeks!

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Men's Health participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.